Refillable cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device and associated method

Abstract

This invention relates to a cosmetic product (12) packaging and dispensing device (10) comprising: - an outer container (14) comprising an annular upper edge (23), and defining an internal volume (18) receiving an inner container (20), - a hoop (50) comprising a holding element (67) configured to be elastically deformed: - in a position for holding the inner container, wherein the or each holding element is bearing on the inner container and the hoop is in the configuration assembled with the outer container, and - in a position for holding the hoop in the absence of the inner container, wherein each holding element is bearing on the annular upper edge and the hoop is arranged in the configuration assembled with the outer container.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Refillable cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device and associated method

[0003] This invention relates to a cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device of the type comprising: an outer container comprising a bottom and at least one lateral wall defining an annular upper edge, the bottom and the at least one lateral wall defining an internal volume intended to receive an inner container, a hoop having a central hoop axis, the hoop comprising at least one element for holding the inner container in the internal volume, and a system for reversible attachment of the hoop, the hoop being movable between a configuration where it is assembled with the outer container via the attachment system and a configuration where it is disassembled from the outer container.

[0004] The cosmetic product is for example a hair product, a hygiene product, a facial and / or body care product, a makeup product, or a sun protection product.

[0005] More generally, a cosmetic product is a product as defined in EC Regulation No. 1223 / 2009 of the European Parliament and the Council of November 30, 2009, relating to cosmetic products.

[0006] For environmental or economic reasons, many cosmetic product packaging and dispensing devices are now designed to be refillable.

[0007] To this end, the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing devices can comprise an inner container (frequently referred to as "refill") containing a cosmetic product. The inner container is detachably housed in an outer container.

[0008] When the product contained in the inner container is used up, the user refills the device by inserting for example a new inner container filled with cosmetic product in the outer container.

[0009] JP2019151340 discloses a cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device comprising an outer container receiving an inner container configured to store a cosmetic product, and a closing cap reversibly closing the outer container.

[0010] A reversible attachment system keeps the inner container fitted in the outer container, in order to hold the inner container firmly in the outer container. The reversible attachment system comprises an upper flange configured to be mounted on the neck of the outer container.

[0011] When the inner container is fitted in the outer container, radial projections present on the inner container are clamped between an outer bearing edge of the neck and the upper flange, and relative movements of the components are limited.

[0012] When the user wishes to remove the inner container from the outer container, for example to transport the cosmetic product in a smaller container, or to refill the device with cosmetic product, it is useful to be able to close the outer container reversibly, for example using the closing cap.

[0013] However, a device as described in JP2019151340, in the absence of an inner container, is not entirely satisfactory.

[0014] Indeed, in the absence of an inner container, a gap is created between the outer edge and the upper flange, previously occupied by the radial projections of the inner container. The upper flange can then be moved relative to the outer edge, which causes unpleasant chattering for the user. In some cases, the upper flange is capable of becoming detached from the outer container and / or catching in the closing cap when a user engages or disengages, for example by screwing, the closing cap. Disengagement between the upper flange and the closing cap can prove to be difficult and constraining for the user.

[0015] Further refillable cosmetic product packaging and dispensing devices are described in US20220312935 and FR3117463.

[0016] A goal of the invention is providing a refillable cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device, which is simple to use for the user, both in use and when refilling the device with cosmetic product, while offering a robust hold, whether in the presence or in the absence of an inner container in the outer container.

[0017] To this end, the invention relates to a cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device wherein the or each holding element is configured to be deformed elastically:

[0018] - in at least one position for holding the inner container, when the inner container is received in the internal volume, wherein the or each holding element is arranged at least partly bearing on the inner container and the hoop is in the configuration where it is assembled with the outer container, and

[0019] - in a position for holding the hoop in the absence of the inner container in the internal volume, wherein the or each holding element is arranged at least partly bearing on the annular upper edge of the outer container and the hoop is arranged in the configuration assembled with the outer container.

[0020] The or each holding element being elastically deformable in a position for holding the inner container, when the inner container is received in the internal volume, the inner container is held securely and the relative movements in relation to the outer container are limited, or zero. This allows pleasant use of the device when the inner container is inserted in the outer container.

[0021] Furthermore, the holding elements being elastically deformable in a position for holding the hoop, in the absence of the inner container in the internal volume, the hoop remains securely fitted on the outer container, in the assembled configuration. Therefore, the user cannot lose the hoop, which remains robustly attached to the outer container, or catch it in a closing cap.

[0022] This furthermore facilitates reuse of the device, the hoop being capable of holding another inner container in the outer container during a potential refilling of the device with cosmetic product.

[0023] The device is also then pleasant to use when the inner container is arranged away from the outer container, because no chattering is present and the hoop is held robustly in place.

[0024] According to one variant, the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device according to the invention comprises the following feature:

[0025] - the or each holding element comprises at least a first lug elastically deformed in at least the position for holding the inner container, wherein the or each first lug is arranged bearing on the inner container and at least a second lug elastically deformed in the position for holding the hoop, wherein the or each second lug is arranged bearing on the annular upper edge of the outer container.

[0026] The presence of a first lug keeping the inner container fitted in the outer container, and of a second lug keeping the hoop fitted on the outer container separates the hold of the inner container and the hold of the hoop.

[0027] Furthermore, the first and second lugse being elastically deformable, the user can perform successive refillings of the device by replacing the inner container several times, without adversely affecting the integrity of the holding element.

[0028] Indeed, the elasticity of the first and second lugs ensures their transition from the deformed state to the non-deformed state without residual deformation, and thus ensures the proper operation of the holding element, even after several device refilling cycles.

[0029] According to one variant, the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device according to the invention comprises the following feature:

[0030] - the or each second lug is without elastic deformation when the first lug is elastically deformed, the or each first lug being without elastic deformation when the second lug is elastically deformed. The first and second lugs are deformed selectively, to fulfill their respective functions. Thus, in the position for holding the inner container and in the position for holding the hoop, the first lug or the second lug is at rest, in the non-deformed state. This promotes the durability of the first and second lugs.

[0031] Moreover, the forces exerted by the holding element are distributed in a desired manner between the lugs in order to ensure the proper operation of the holding element in each of the positions for holding the inner container and the hoop.

[0032] According to one variant, the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device according to the invention comprises the following feature:

[0033] - the hoop includes a ring intended to be placed around the annular upper edge of the outer container, the or each lug protruding toward the central axis from the ring, the or each lug protruding from the first lug.

[0034] The first lugs protruding from the ring toward the central axis, they allow for an optimal hold of the inner container in the outer container, the inner container being located closer to the central axis than the outer container.

[0035] According to one variant, the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device according to the invention comprises the following feature:

[0036] - the or each holding element comprises a pair of adjacent first lugs elastically deformed in the position for holding the inner container, wherein the first lugs are arranged bearing on the inner container, and at least a second lug arranged between the two first adjacent lugs and connected to the adjacent first lugs.

[0037] The or each second lug being arranged between two adjacent first lugs, robustness is imparted to the holding element, which locally ensures a secure attachment of the inner container and the hoop.

[0038] Such a configuration also ensures a superior hold of the inner container, the mass of which is generally greater than the mass of the hoop.

[0039] According to one variant, the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device according to the invention comprises the following feature:

[0040] - the or each second lug protrudes away from the central axis from the first lug.

[0041] The second lugs protruding from the ring away from the central axis, they are not in contact with the inner container.

[0042] Thus, contact, or lack of contact, with the inner container does not determine the deformation state of the second lugs.

[0043] In other words, the presence of the inner container does not interfere with the second lugs because they are arranged more radially away from the central axis of the hoop than the inner container, and project away from the central axis, i.e. to the outside the outer container.

[0044] According to one variant, the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device according to the invention comprises the following feature:

[0045] - the or each first lug has a first curved region and a first lower bearing surface on the inner container at a first free end of the first curved region, the or each second lug having a second curved region and a second lower bearing surface on the annular upper edge of the outer container at a second free end of the second curved region.

[0046] The first and second curved regions provide flexural flexibility to the first and second lugs, which are thus capable of being deformed in the positions for holding the inner container and for holding the hoop, respectively.

[0047] The first and second lower bearing surfaces allow for the pressing of the inner container / the hoop, respectively, in / on the outer container, in order to prevent any movement of the inner container / the hoop away from the outer container.

[0048] Moreover, the lower bearing surfaces improve load distribution between the annular upper edge of the outer container and on the inner container.

[0049] According to one variant, the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device according to the invention comprises the following feature:

[0050] - the or each holding element has an angular extent around the central axis less than 30°.

[0051] Such an angular extent is sufficient to ensure an effective hold of the inner container in the outer container and of the hoop on the outer container, but weak enough so as not to impede the passage opening. The user can thus insert their hand or fingers inside the inner container and / or, in the absence of an inner container, inside the outer container.

[0052] According to one variant, the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device according to the invention comprises the following feature:

[0053] - the reversible attachment system comprises an attachment element on the annular upper edge of the outer container, and a complementary attachment element on the hoop, the complementary attachment element cooperating with the attachment element in the assembled configuration of the hoop in order to attach the hoop reversibly to the outer container.

[0054] The attachment of the hoop on the annular upper edge of the outer container induced by cooperation of an attachment element on the annular upper edge of the outer container and a complementary attachment element on the hoop, it is not dependent on the presence or absence of the inner container in the outer container. It is also possible to attach the hoop on the annular upper edge of the outer container, whether the inner container is arranged in the outer container or away from the outer container.

[0055] According to one variant, the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device according to the invention comprises the following feature:

[0056] - one of the attachment element and the complementary attachment element comprises a ramp equipped at its end with an insertion housing, the other of the attachment element and the complementary attachment element comprising an insertion notch, the holding element pushing the notch in the housing in the position for holding the hoop.

[0057] The cooperative engagement of the notch and the housing in the position for holding the hoop ensures a reversible, but nonetheless robust, attachment of the hoop on the outer container.

[0058] Furthermore, the ramp guides the notch to the housing and facilitates the assembly of the hoop on the outer container.

[0059] Moreover, the presence of the holding element pushing the notch in the housing even in the position for holding the hoop, guarantees a locking in position of the hoop on the outer container, even in the absence of an inner container and in particular when a vertical gap is created by the absence of the inner container.

[0060] According to one variant, the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device according to the invention comprises the following feature:

[0061] - the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device comprises an inner container, the inner container being configured to be fitted reversibly in the internal volume of the outer container.

[0062] The inner container being configured to be fitted reversibly in the internal volume of the outer container, it can be replaced by a new inner container, for example when the cosmetic product contained in the inner container is used up. The user then has a refillable cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device, which reduces costs and provides a reduced environmental impact.

[0063] According to one variant, the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device according to the invention comprises the following feature:

[0064] - the inner container comprises a collar radially protruding from a lateral wall of the inner container, the or each holding element being arranged at least partly bearing on the collar of the inner container in the position for holding the inner container.

[0065] The collar allows the inner container to have a substantially planar bearing surface for the attachment element in order to ensure optimal hold of the inner container in the outer container. Moreover, the collar allows the inner container to rest directly on an edge of the outer container, and makes it possible to facilitate its removal from the outer container.

[0066] According to one variant, the cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device according to the invention comprises the following feature:

[0067] - the hoop comprises between 1 and 10 holding elements angularly distributed along the hoop.

[0068] Such a proportion of holding elements effectively holds both the inner container when the latter is inserted in the outer container and the hoop on the outer container, when the inner container is dispersed away from the outer container.

[0069] Thus, if one of the holding elements is defective, the remaining hold elements ensure the reversible attachment of the inner container and / or the hoop, for optimal use of the device.

[0070] The invention also relates to a method of use of a cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device as described above, the method comprising the following steps: providing a cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device as described above, an inner container being inserted in the internal volume, the holding element being arranged in a position for holding the inner container bearing on the inner container, disengaging the reversible attachment system and moving the hoop from the assembled configuration to the configuration disassembled from the outer container, removing the inner container from the internal volume, moving the hoop from the disassembled configuration to the configuration assembled with the outer container, and engaging the reversible attachment system, and switching the holding element into the position for holding the hoop.

[0071] Switching the holding element into the position for holding the hoop makes it possible to hold the hoop on the outer container, even in the absence of the inner container.

[0072] The invention will become more apparent upon reading the following description, given solely as a non-limiting example, and made with reference to the drawings wherein:

[0073] Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of the relevant parts of a cosmetic product dispensing and packaging device according to the invention,

[0074] Figure 2 is a partial sectional view along a median vertical plane of the cosmetic product dispensing and packaging device of Figure 1 , comprising an inner container, Figure 3 is a partial sectional view along a median vertical plane of the cosmetic product dispensing and packaging device according to the invention of Figure 1 from which the outer container is removed, and,

[0075] Figure 4 is a zoomed-in perspective view on an attachment element of the inner container in the outer container of the device of Figure 1.

[0076] A device 10 for packaging and dispensing a cosmetic product according to the invention is illustrated in Figure 1.

[0077] The device 10 spreads out here along an elevation axis A-A’ shown as vertical in Figure 1.

[0078] The packaging and dispensing device 10 is intended to store a cosmetic product 12. The cosmetic product 12 is for example a hair product, a hygiene product, a facial and / or body care product, a makeup product, or a sun protection product.

[0079] The device 10 comprises an outer container 14 extending along the elevation axis A-A’, comprising a bottom 15 perpendicular to the elevation axis A-A’ and at least one lateral wall 16 extending around the elevation axis A-A’. The bottom 15 and the lateral wall 16 define an internal volume 18 intended to receive an inner container 20.

[0080] The outer container 14 has an annular upper edge 23. The annular upper edge 23 forms the end of the outer container 14 opposite the bottom 15 along the elevation axis A- A’.

[0081] In a particular embodiment, shown in Figure 1 , the outer container 14 includes an annular part 25 attached to the at least one lateral wall 16 of the outer container 14 and defining the annular upper edge 23. The annular part 25 is for example attached by snapfitting onto the lateral wall 16 of the outer container 14.

[0082] The annular part 25 comprises for example a first ring 27 advantageously made of plastic, and optionally comprises a metal skirt 29, for example made of aluminum, arranged on the first ring 27 and imparting a visually appealing appearance to the annular upper edge 23.

[0083] The device 10 also comprises a hoop 50 for holding the inner container 20 detachably assembled on the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14 and a closing ring 31 attached for example by force-fitting on the hoop 50. The closing ring 31 is intended to join with a closing cap 33 as described in more detail hereinafter.

[0084] As described above, the inner container 20 is intended to be reversibly inserted in the internal volume 18 of the outer container 14. In other words, the inner container 20 is movable between an inserted position, shown in Figure 2, wherein the inner container 20 is inserted in the internal volume 18 of the outer container 14, and a removed position from the internal volume 18, shown in Figure 3, wherein the inner container 20 has been removed from the internal volume 18 of the outer container 14.

[0085] The outer container 14 and the inner container 20 are for example made of plastic.

[0086] The outer container 20 extends along the elevation axis A-A’, and comprises a bottom 35 perpendicular to the elevation axis A-A’ and at least one lateral wall 37 extending around the elevation axis A-A’. The bottom 35 and the at least one lateral wall 37 define a volume 39 for storing the cosmetic product 12.

[0087] As illustrated in Figure 1 , the inner container 20 comprises a collar 43 radially protruding from the lateral wall 37 of the inner container 20.

[0088] When the inner container 20 is fitted in the outer container 14, as shown in Figure 2, the collar 43 of the inner container 20 rests on the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14, in particular rests on the annular part 25.

[0089] In a particular embodiment, the inner container 20 also comprises at least one attachment boss 45 radially protruding from the lateral wall 37 of the inner container 20. For example, the inner container 20 comprises between two and four attachment bosses 45 located above the collar 43 along the extension direction A-A’.

[0090] Advantageously, the attachment bosses 45 cooperate with a closing cap of the inner container 20, not shown, capable of reversibly closing the inner container 20, in particular when the inner container 20 forms a refill, before introducing it into the outer container 14.

[0091] As mentioned above, the device 10 comprises a closing cap 33, seen in Figure 1 , reversibly closing the outer container 14.

[0092] The closing cap 33 comprises an attachment system cooperating with a complementary attachment system 47 on the closing ring 31 wedged on the hoop 50. For example, the closing cap 33 is screwed on the closing ring 31 in order to reversibly close the internal volume 18.

[0093] The hoop 50 has a central hoop axis. The central hoop axis is for example parallel with the elevation axis A-A’ when the hoop 50 is mounted on the outer container 14. The hoop 50 is shown in detail in Figure 4.

[0094] In the example of Figures 1 to 4, the hoop 50 comprises a ring 52 intended to be placed around the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14. The ring 52 is for example made of plastic.

[0095] The hoop 50 is movable between a configuration assembled with the outer container 14 and a configuration disassembled from the outer container 14.

[0096] To this end, the device 10 comprises a reversible attachment system of the hoop 50. The reversible attachment system comprises at least one attachment element 54 arranged on the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14, and for the or each attachment element 54, a complementary attachment element 56 arranged on the hoop 50.

[0097] The attachment element 54 comprises an insertion notch 64 as described hereinafter. In the example shown in the figures, each notch 64 protrudes radially relative to the elevation axis A-A'. It is here borne by the first ring 27. It protrudes through a window 66 arranged in the metal skirt 29.

[0098] The complementary attachment element 56 cooperates with the attachment element 54 in the assembled configuration of the hoop 50 in order to attach the hoop 50 reversibly to the outer container 14.

[0099] In the example shown in Figures 1 to 4, the complementary attachment element 56 comprises a tilted ramp 60 equipped at its end with a longitudinal insertion housing 62. The notch 64 is pushed in the housing 62 when the hoop 50 is assembled on the outer container 14.

[0100] The ramp 60 forms here a helical groove for inserting the notch 64, arranged in an internal surface 65 of the hoop 50.

[0101] Advantageously, the ramp 60 is tilted upwards along the elevation axis A-A’, i.e. toward the closing cap 33, up to the insertion housing 62 and the insertion housing 62 extends the ramp 60 downwards along the elevation axis A-A’, i.e. toward the bottom 15 of the outer container 14.

[0102] Thus, during the assembly of the hoop 50 on the annular upper edge 23, the user positions the hoop 50 facing the annular upper edge 23, along the elevation direction A-A’. The user inserts the notch 64 in the ramp 60 and by rotating the hoop 50 around the elevation axis A-A’ relative to the outer container 14, guides the notch 64 inside the ramp 60 until the notch 64 is inserted in the insertion housing 62. When the notch 64 is held in the insertion housing 62, the hoop 50 is robustly held on the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14.

[0103] The above steps can be carried out in reverse order in order to disassemble the hoop 50 from the outer container 14, in particular by forcing the dislodgement of the insertion notch 64 out of the insertion housing 62, as described in more detail hereinafter.

[0104] In one variant, not shown, the attachment element 54 comprises the ramp 60, and the complementary attachment element 56 comprises the insertion notch 64, the notch 64 being pushed in the housing 62 of the ramp 60 when the hoop 50 is assembled with the outer container 14.

[0105] The hoop 50 further comprises at least one element 67 for holding the inner container 20 in the internal volume 18. The or each holding element 67 is configured to hold the inner container 20 robustly attached in the internal volume 18, when the inner container 20 is fitted in the internal volume 18, and to hold the hoop 50 robustly attached to the outer container 14 in the absence of the inner container 20 in the internal volume 18.

[0106] This results in particular from the elastic upward stress exerted by the holding element 67 on the hoop 50, when the holding element 67 presses on the collar 43 of the inner container 20 when the latter is received in the outer container 14 or on the annular outer edge 23 in the absence of the inner container 20. This elastic stress keeps the notch 64 fitted in the bottom of the housing 62.

[0107] Advantageously, the hoop 50 comprises between 1 and 10 holding elements 67 angularly distributed along the hoop 50.

[0108] In the example shown in Figure 4, the hoop 50 comprises three holding elements 67 angularly distributed along the hoop 50.

[0109] Each holding element 67 has an angular extent for example less than 30°.

[0110] Each holding element 67 is configured to be elastically deformed in at least one position for holding the inner container 20, shown in Figure 2, when the inner container 20 is received in the internal volume 18, wherein each holding element 67 is arranged at least partly bearing on the inner container 20 and the hoop 50 is in the configuration assembled with the outer container 14, and in at least one position for holding the hoop 50 in the absence of the inner container 20 in the internal volume 18, shown in Figure 3, wherein each holding element 67 is arranged at least partly bearing on the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14 and the hoop 50 is in the configuration assembled with the outer container 14.

[0111] Thus, the or each holding element 67 holds the inner container 20 attached in the internal volume 18 of the outer container 14 when the inner container 20 is inserted in the internal volume 18 of the outer container 14, by bearing on the inner container 20, more particularly by bearing on the collar 43 of the inner container 20. The inner container 20 is then pressed against the bottom 15 of the outer container 14 and / or the collar 43 is then pressed against the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14. The relative movements of the inner container 20 relative to the outer container 14, along the elevation axis A-A’, are then limited, in particular because each notch 64 is received at the bottom of the housing 62 and is held against this bottom by the elastic stress force.

[0112] Moreover, the holding elements 67 hold the hoop 50 robustly fitted on the outer container 14, in the absence of an inner container 14 inserted in the internal volume 18 of the outer container 14, by bearing on the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14.

[0113] As above, the bearing of each holding element 67 on the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14 pushes the insertion notch 64 against the bottom of the insertion housing 62 in the position for holding the hoop 50. The holding element 67, by bearing on the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14, pushes the hoop 50 upward, i.e., to a height measured along the elevation axis A-A’ relative to the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14, substantially equal to the height, measured along the elevation axis A-A’, of the hoop 50 in the presence of the inner container 20 in the internal volume 18, relative to the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14, in the assembled configuration of the hoop 50 on the outer container 14.

[0114] Indeed, the absence of the inner container 20 creates a gap (in the absence of the collar 43 in particular) between the hoop 50 and the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14. This gap is compensated by each holding element 67 which bears on the annular upper edge 23 so as to keep the hoop 50 raised.

[0115] Thus, the hoop 50 also being held in the upper position in the presence or in the absence of the inner container 20, the insertion notch 64 abuts at the bottom of the insertion housing 62. There is no risk of it coming out of the insertion housing 62. The hoop 50 is then held robustly on the outer container 14.

[0116] In the example of Figures 1 to 4, each holding element 67 comprises at least a first lug 70 elastically deformed in at least the position for holding the inner container 20, wherein the or each first lug 70 is placed bearing on the inner container 20. More particularly, in the position for holding the inner container 20, the or each first lug 70 is arranged bearing on the collar 43 of the inner container 20 while being elastically deformed.

[0117] Furthermore, in this example, each holding element 67 comprises at least a second lug 72 elastically deformed in the position for holding the hoop 50, wherein the or each second lug 72 arranged is placed bearing on the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14 while being deformed elastically. More particularly, the position for holding the hoop 50, the or each second lug 72 is placed bearing on the annular part 25.

[0118] In a particular embodiment, shown in Figure 4, each holding element 67 comprises a pair of adjacent first lugs 70 elastically deformed in the position for holding the inner container 20, and at least a second lug 72 arranged between the two adjacent first lugs 70 and connected to the adjacent first lugs 70.

[0119] In the example of Figure 4, the ring 52 defines, for each pair of first lugs 70 receiving a second lug 72 between them, a slot receiving these lugs 70, 72 in projection.

[0120] The first lugs 70 are for example integral with the second lug 72 surrounded thereby.

[0121] Each first lug 70 protrudes toward the central hoop 50 axis (coaxial with the elevation axis A-A’ when the hoop 50 is mounted on the outer container 14) from the ring 52. Each second lug 72 protrudes from the first lug 70. In particular, each second lug 72 protrudes away from the central hoop axis from the first lug 70. In other words, the first and second lugs 70, 72 project along two opposite radial directions.

[0122] In the example seen in Figure 4, the first lugs 70 of each pair of adjacent first lugs 70 are connected together by a shared central portion 73 from which the second lug 72 protrudes.

[0123] In the example of Figure 4, each first lug 70 has a first curved region 75 delimited between the ring 52 and a first free end 76. Each first lug 70 also has a first lower bearing surface 77 on the inner container 20 located at the first free end 76 of the first curved region 75.

[0124] Similarly, each second lug 72 has a second curved region 80 delimited between the shared central portion 73 and a second free end 81 . Each second lug 72 also has a second lower bearing surface 82 on the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14 located at the second free end 81 of the second curved region 80.

[0125] The first and second free ends 76, 81 are therefore placed so as to be radially opposite from the ring 52, the first free end 76 being located toward the central hoop 50 axis from the ring 52, the second free end 81 being located away from the central hoop 50 axis from the first free end 76.

[0126] This facilitates in particular the hold of the inner container 20 in the outer container 14, the inner container 20 being located closer to the central hoop axis than the outer container 14.

[0127] The height of the first free end 76 of each first lug 70 is less than the height of the second free end 81 of each second lug 72 in the position for holding the inner container 20 and in the position for holding the hoop 50.

[0128] Moreover, the relative deformation between each first lug 70 and the second lug 72 located between the first lugs 70, is not affected by the bearing of each first lug 70 on the inner container 20 and by the resulting elastic deformation of each first lug 70.

[0129] The inner container 20 is devoid of contact with each second lug 72, because each second lug 72 is arranged more radially away from the central hoop axis than the inner container 20, and project away from the central hoop axis, i.e. to outside the outer container 14.

[0130] In one particular embodiment, the second lugs 72 are without elastic deformation when the first lugs 70 are elastically deformed. Similarly, the first lugs 70 are without elastic deformation when the second lugs 72 are elastically deformed. Each second free end 81 is then located above and without contact with the inner container 20 or with the annular upper edge 23. When the first lugs 70 bear on the inner container 20 in order to keep the inner container 20 stationary in the outer container 14, the second lugs 72 are at rest without elastic deformation in particular relative to the first lugs 70.

[0131] Similarly, in the absence of an inner container 20, when the second lugs 72 bear on the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14 in order to keep the hoop 50 stationary on the outer container 14, the first lugs 70 are at rest without elastic deformation. Each first end is located without contact with the annular upper edge 23.

[0132] A method of use of the device 10 shall now be described.

[0133] The user initially has a packaging and dispensing device 10 as described above. In the initial state, the inner container 20 is inserted in the internal volume 18 of the outer container 14.

[0134] Each holding element 67 is then arranged in the position for holding the inner container 20 bearing on the inner container 20.

[0135] In particular, each first lug 70 is placed bearing on the collar 43 of the inner container 20, and the second lugs 72 are without elastic deformation, the second lugs 72 being in a rest position, without bearing on the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14.

[0136] Each notch 64 is kept in contact with the bottom of the housing 62 by elastic stress of the first lugs 70 which push the hoop 50 upward away from the annular upper edge 23. The collar 43 is thus clamped between the annular upper edge 23 and each first lug 70.

[0137] In order to remove the inner container 20 from the internal volume 18 of the outer container 14, for example in order to refill the device 10 with cosmetic product 12, the user disengages the reversible attachment system in order to move the hoop 50 from the assembled configuration to the configuration disassembled from the outer container 14.

[0138] For example, the user carries out this step by pushing the hoop 50 toward the annular upper edge 23 against the elastic stress produced by the first lugs 70. This dislodges each insertion notch 64 from the insertion housing 62 wherein it is received. Then, the user rotates the hoop 50 around the elevation axis A-A’, while being guided by the movement of the insertion notch 64 in the ramp 60, until the complete dislodgement of the insertion notch 64 from the ramp 60.

[0139] The hoop 50 is then switched to the configuration disassembled from the outer container 14, and the user moves the hoop 50 away from the outer container 14, then removes the inner container 20 from the internal volume 18.

[0140] Optionally, the user can replace the inner container 20 by another inner container 20 filled with cosmetic product 12 or containing another cosmetic product. They then replace the hoop 50, by performing the steps described above in reverse order. On the other hand, once the inner container 20 has been removed, the user can seek to reassemble the hoop 50 on the outer container 14, for example so as not to lose the hoop 50.

[0141] To this end, the user moves the hoop 50 from the disassembled configuration to the configuration assembled with the outer container 14 while engaging the reversible attachment system.

[0142] For example, the user positions the hoop 50 facing the annular upper edge 23, along the elevation direction A-A’, then inserts the notch 64 in the ramp 60 and by rotating the hoop 50 around the elevation axis A-A’ relative to the outer container 14, guides the notch 64 inside the ramp 60 until the notch 64 is inserted in the insertion housing 62.

[0143] Simultaneously, each holding element 67 switches to the position for holding the hoop 50.

[0144] More particularly, each second lug 72 bears on the annular upper edge 23 of the outer container 14 and is elastically deformed to generate an upward stress force of the hoop 50 away from the annular upper edge 23. Each first lug 70 remains without elastic deformation, i.e. the first lugs 70 are in an idle position, without bearing on the inner container 20 because the inner container 20 is arranged outside the outer container 14.

[0145] Each notch 64 then abuts at the bottom of the insertion housing 62 and the hoop 50 being pushed upward, there is no risk of one of the notches 64 coming out of the insertion housing 62. The hoop 50 is then held robustly on the outer container 14.

[0146] Moreover, no chattering is present between the hoop 50 and the annular upper edge 23.

[0147] The cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device 10 according to the invention has numerous advantages.

[0148] The holding elements 67 being elastically deformable in a position for holding the inner container 20, when the inner container 20 is received in the internal volume 18, the inner container 20 is held securely and the relative movements in relation to the outer container 14 are limited or zero. This allows easy and pleasant use of the device 10 when the inner container 20 is inserted in the outer container 14.

[0149] Furthermore, the holding elements 67 being elastically deformable in a position for holding the hoop 50 in the absence of the inner container 20 in the internal volume 18, the hoop 50 remains securely fitted on the outer container 14 in the assembled configuration. Therefore, the user cannot lose the hoop 50, which remains robustly attached to the outer container 14. Moreover, the hoop 50 is stationary on the outer container 14 and is not at a risk of being pulled and caught in the closing cap 33, during screwing / unscrewing of the closing cap 33 in relation to the outer container 14.

[0150] This therefore facilitates reuse of the device 10, the hoop 50 being reusable to hold another inner container in the outer container 14 during a potential refilling of the device 10 with cosmetic product 12.

[0151] The device 10 is then easy and pleasant to use in any configuration.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Cosmetic product (12) packaging and dispensing device (10) comprising: an outer container (14) comprising a bottom (15) and at least one lateral wall (16) defining an annular upper edge (23), the bottom (15) and the at least one lateral wall (16) defining an internal volume (18) intended to receive an inner container (20), a hoop (50) having a central hoop axis, the hoop (50) comprising at least one element (67) for holding the inner container (20) in the internal volume (18), a system for reversible attachment of the hoop (50), the hoop (50) being movable between a configuration assembled with the outer container (14) via the attachment system and a configuration disassembled from the outer container (14), characterized in that the or each holding element (67) is configured to be elastically deformed:- in at least one position for holding the inner container (20), when the inner container (20) is received in the internal volume (18), wherein the or each holding element (67) is arranged at least partly bearing on the inner container (20) and the hoop (50) is in the configuration assembled with the outer container (14), and- in a position for holding the hoop (50) in the absence of the inner container (20) in the internal volume (18), wherein the or each holding element (67) is arranged at least partly bearing on the annular upper edge (23) of the outer container (14) and the hoop (50) is arranged in the configuration assembled with the outer container (14).

2. Cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (10) according to claim 1 , wherein the or each holding element (67) comprises at least a first lug (70) elastically deformed in at least the position for holding the inner container (20), wherein the or each first lug (70) is arranged bearing on the inner container (20) and at least a second lug (72) elastically deformed in the position for holding the hoop (50), wherein the or each second lug (72) is arranged bearing on the annular upper edge (23) of the outer container (14).

3. Cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (10) according to claim 2, wherein the or each second lug (72) is without elastic deformation when the first lug (70) is elastically deformed, the or each first lug (70) being without elastic deformation when the second lug (72) is elastically deformed.

4. Cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (10) according to one of claims 2 or 3, wherein the hoop (50) includes a ring (52) intended to be placed around the annular upper edge (23) of the outer container (14), the or each first lug (70) protruding toward the central axis from the ring (52), the or each second lug (72) protruding from the first lug (70).

5. Cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (10) according to claim 4, wherein the or each holding element (67) comprises a pair of adjacent first lugs (70) elastically deformed in the position for holding the inner container (20), wherein the first lugs (70) are arranged bearing on the inner container (20), and at least a second lug (72) arranged between the two first adjacent lugs (70) and connected to the adjacent first lugs (70).

6. Device (10) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the or each second lug (72) protrudes away from the central axis from the first lug (70).

7. Device (10) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the or each first lug (70) has a first curved region (75) and a first lower bearing surface (77) on the inner container (20) at a first free end (76) of the first curved region (75), the or each second lug (72) having a second curved region (80) and a second lower bearing surface (82) on the annular upper edge (23) of the outer container (14) at a second free end (81) of the second curved region (80).

8. Cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the or each holding element (67) has an angular extent around the central hoop (50) axis less than 30°.

9. Cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reversible attachment system comprises an attachment element (54) on the annular upper edge (23) of the outer container (14), and a complementary attachment element (56) on the hoop (50), the complementary attachment element (56) cooperating with the attachment element (54) in the assembled configuration of the hoop (50) in order to attach the hoop (50) reversibly to the outer container (14).

10. Cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (10) according to claim 9, wherein one of the attachment element (54) and the complementary attachmentelement (56) comprises a ramp (60) equipped at its end with an insertion housing (62), the other of the attachment element (54) and the complementary attachment element (56) comprising an insertion notch (64), the holding element (67) pushing the notch (64) in the housing (62) in the position for holding the hoop (50).

11. Cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an inner container (20), the inner container (20) being configured to fit reversibly in the internal volume (18) of the outer container (14).

12. Cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (10) according to claim 11 , wherein the inner container (20) comprises a collar (43) radially protruding from a lateral wall (37) of the inner container (20), the or each holding element (67) being arranged at least partly bearing on the collar (43) of the inner container (20) in the position for holding the inner container (20).

13. Cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hoop (50) comprises between 1 and 10 holding elements (67) angularly distributed along the hoop (50).

14. Method of use of a cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising the following steps: providing a cosmetic product packaging and dispensing device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, an inner container (20) being inserted in the internal volume (18), the holding element (67) being arranged in a position for holding the inner container (20) bearing on the inner container (20), disengaging the reversible attachment system and moving the hoop (50) from the assembled configuration to the configuration disassembled from the outer container (14), removing the inner container (20) from the internal volume (18), moving the hoop (50) from the disassembled configuration to the configuration assembled with the outer container (14), and engaging the reversible attachment system, and switching the holding element (67) into the position for holding the hoop (50).

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